Diurnal use of space by captive adult broad-snouted caiman (Caiman latirostris): Implications for pen design

VERDADE, L.M.; PIÑA, C.I.; ARAÚJO, J.L.O.

AQUACULTURE

Año: 2006 vol. 251 p. 333 - 339

0044-8486

Crocodilians generally present low reproductive success in captivity. The reasons for this are still unclear, but the faulty design of reproductive facilities can be a cause of stress, injuries and social disruption. This study explored the use of space by captive adult broad-snouted caiman in order to improve pen design for farming species. Caimans showed a predominant use of the pool and its margin during daytime. Even in our small (9
10 m) pens, caimans used pools and their margins significantly more than areas farther removed from pools. This pattern suggests that caiman farmers should maximize pool area and perimeter in pen design.
10 m) pens, caimans used pools and their margins significantly more than areas farther removed from pools. This pattern suggests that caiman farmers should maximize pool area and perimeter in pen design.